Labor leaders Ka Leody De Guzman and Luke Espiritu have pledged to advocate for a ₱1,500 daily minimum wage for workers nationwide if they secure Senate seats, arguing that the current wages leave families struggling to cover basic expenses.
During a recent statement, De Guzman emphasized the need for a wage hike that reflects the actual cost of living. “Umaabot sa ₱30,000 buwan-buwan ang kailangang gastusin ng isang pamilya para lang matugunan ang pinakapayak na pangangailangan,” he said, highlighting how low wages force workers into debt just to survive.
Espiritu echoed the sentiment, describing the proposal as a critical first step in improving workers’ welfare. “Workers in this country are in a dismal state. The current conditions require systemic reform, which we will push for in the Senate,” he stated.
The two labor advocates pointed out that a standardized nationwide wage is necessary to ensure fair compensation for all workers, regardless of location. De Guzman argued that fair wages would boost regional economies as well, with workers spending their earnings locally.
The pair also addressed concerns from small businesses, assuring them that existing laws, such as the Barangay Micro Business Enterprises (BMBE) Law and the Wage Rationalization Law, offer avenues for government support. Espiritu suggested that the ₱26 billion currently allocated for assistance programs could be redirected to help micro and small enterprises meet the proposed wage without harming their operations.
